Wayne Community College is giving future cybersecurity professionals a powerful new advantage through its state-of-the-art cybersecurity lab that opened this fall.
In 2024, WCC’s Cybersecurity program received a grant of nearly $150,000 from the Carolina Cyber Network, of which the College is a member. The network connects students and teachers in North Carolina to share resources and best practices in the cybersecurity field.
The grant was used by WCC to provide resources and equipment for a cybersecurity lab to enhance students’ learning experiences. Designed to mirror real-world environments, the lab equips students with hands-on experience in ethical hacking, network monitoring, and other critical defense strategies that employers demand.
The lab features new networking equipment, a mobile instructor workstation, smart boards, video conferencing tools for more interactive teaching and collaboration, and ergonomic seating for a professional-grade environment. It has two sections—one for lectures and one for activities.
With the added resources, Cybersecurity students will also be able to engage in red team / blue team practical exercises, where students take on the role of either an attacker or defender of an organization’s cybersecurity.
“This lab bridges theory with practice, transforming classroom lessons into real-world skills,” said WCC Information Systems Technology Department Chair Jennifer Tyndall. “It gives our students the competitive edge they need to stay ahead of today’s cyber threats and launch successful careers.”
Students in WCC’s Introduction to Networks class have been utilizing the cybersecurity lab this semester. They have created and tested cables, making use of the lab’s new networking equipment and servers.
“The new setup has increased student engagement, with several students staying after class to continue practicing and exploring concepts,” said WCC Cybersecurity Instructor Randy Wilhide.
Tyndall agreed that the new features are already making a difference in the program. “Faculty are equally excited about the space, pointing out that the layout and technology make it easier to transition between lecture and hands-on activities,” she said.
The lab enhances a program that has received national recognition for excellence. WCC is designated by the National Security Agency (NSA) as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD), highlighting the program’s commitment to producing highly skilled cybersecurity professionals who will protect the nation’s digital infrastructure.
WCC’s Cybersecurity program offers an associate degree and several certificates. Graduates can transfer to East Carolina University to earn a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology. Learn more on WCC’s website.
About Wayne Community College
Wayne Community College is a public, learning-centered institution with an open-door admission policy located in Goldsboro, N.C. As it works to develop a highly skilled and competitive workforce, the college serves around 10,000 individuals annually as well as businesses, industry, and community organizations with high quality, affordable, accessible learning opportunities, including more than 150 college credit programs. WCC’s mission is to meet the educational, training, and cultural needs of the communities it serves.